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Globalstar Bets on XCOM RAN: Could This Be the Next Big Growth Driver?
ZACKS· 2025-09-29 13:05
Core Insights - Globalstar, Inc. is strategically investing in XCOM's Radio Access Network (RAN) technology to enhance its growth potential, with the XCOM RAN expected to deliver at least 4 times higher capacity than standard 5G NR systems [1][9]. Company Developments - In December 2024, Globalstar successfully conducted its first 5G data call using XCOM RAN over the n53 spectrum, achieving downlink speeds of 100 Mbps and uplink speeds of 60 Mbps, demonstrating the technology's capability for mission-critical applications [2]. - The company is advancing its software-defined, end-to-end XCOM RAN solution, which offers lower latency, greater spectral efficiency, and dynamic spectrum sharing, potentially broadening its addressable market [3]. - Globalstar invested significantly in the development of XCOM RAN in Q2, which increased cash costs and pressured adjusted EBITDA by approximately $1.9 million, resulting in a 300 basis point reduction in adjusted EBITDA margin compared to the previous year [4]. - For 2025, Globalstar anticipates revenues between $260 million and $285 million, with adjusted EBITDA margins around 50% [5]. Industry Context - The satellite and communications sector is experiencing intense competition due to rapid technological advancements and new entrants, with companies like Iridium Communications and Gilat Satellite Networks expanding their addressable markets [6]. - Iridium is focusing on building a next-generation network in the 2030s to provide 5G/6G services directly to consumer devices, while also enhancing its role in global positioning and navigation [7]. - Gilat is well-positioned to benefit from rising global demand for defense SATCOM, with significant contracts secured from the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Army [10]. Financial Performance - Globalstar's stock has increased by 83.9% over the past year, compared to the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry's growth of 129.5% [12]. - The company's shares are trading at a forward 12-month price/sales ratio of 14.32X, significantly higher than the industry's 1.37X [13]. - Earnings estimates for Globalstar have been revised upward, with a 77.1% increase for 2025 earnings to a projected loss of 8 cents per share [14].
Globalstar Reiterates 2025 Outlook: Understated or Playing Safe?
ZACKS· 2025-09-24 12:51
Group 1: Company Overview - Globalstar (GSAT) reiterated its 2025 revenue outlook of $260-$285 million and expects adjusted EBITDA margins around 50% [1] - In Q2, revenues were $67.1 million, up 11% year over year, while adjusted EBITDA increased to $35.8 million from $32.6 million [1] - The company is witnessing growth in commercial IoT, with an increase in the average number of subscribers driven by robust growth in gross activations [1] Group 2: Growth Catalysts - GSAT is advancing new platforms like the RM200 two-way module and XCOM RAN, which could further drive revenue [2] - The RM200M module is gaining traction across various sectors, including oil & gas and defense, tested by over 50 partners [2] - XCOM RAN aims to enter terrestrial wireless markets, broadening the total addressable market and enabling next-gen hybrid satellite-terrestrial network architectures [3] Group 3: Infrastructure and Investment - GSAT is investing in infrastructure upgrades, launching a global ground infrastructure program for the next-generation Extended MSS Network, adding about 90 antennas across 35 ground stations in 25 countries [4] - The HIBLEO-XL-1 filing indicates a move towards next-generation MSS capabilities, expanding satellite capacity and frequency spectrum [5] Group 4: Competitive Landscape - The satellite and communication industry is highly competitive, with rapid technological advancements and new entrants potentially impacting GSAT's revenue trajectory [6] - Competitors like Iridium Communications and Gilat Satellite Networks are expanding their addressable markets amid increasing demand for global connectivity [6] Group 5: Financial Performance and Valuation - GSAT's shares have gained 36.9% in the past month, while the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry grew by 80.1% [12] - GSAT stock is trading at a forward 12-month price/sales ratio of 15.35X, significantly higher than the industry's 1.37X [13] - The consensus mark for 2025 earnings has been revised up 77.1% to a loss of 8 cents per share over the past 60 days [14]
GSAT Expands Estonia Ground Station to Boost C-3 Satellite Network
ZACKS· 2025-09-23 16:26
Core Insights - Globalstar, Inc. (GSAT) has initiated construction to expand its ground station in Estonia, doubling its size to enhance its mobile satellite system and service offerings across Europe [1][11] Expansion Details - The expansion project, supported by the Estonian Investment Agency and the U.S. Commercial Service, builds on Globalstar's previous investment in Saarde, where the site was commissioned in 2021 with three 6-meter tracking antennas [2] - The new expansion will add three additional antennas and related infrastructure, representing an incremental investment of approximately $9 million, with AS Connecto Infra handling the construction [3] Strategic Importance - The Estonian expansion is part of a broader initiative to deploy up to 90 new tracking antennas under Globalstar's third-generation C-3 satellite system, aimed at future-proofing the network for advanced satellite services [4] - The Estonian site, along with facilities in Greece, Spain, and France, is crucial for providing emergency SOS services and connectivity in areas lacking terrestrial mobile coverage [5] Financial Performance - In the last reported quarter, Globalstar achieved revenues of $67.1 million, reflecting an 11% year-over-year increase, driven by growth in wholesale capacity services and Commercial IoT [8] - The company reaffirmed its 2025 financial outlook, projecting total revenues between $260 million and $285 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of around 50% [9] Market Position - Globalstar currently holds a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy), with its shares having increased by 107.7% over the past year, compared to the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry's growth of 130.3% [10]
Iridium & Deutsche Telekom Join Forces to Expand Global IoT Connectivity
ZACKS· 2025-09-17 14:41
Core Insights - Iridium Communications has partnered with Deutsche Telekom to provide global connectivity through the upcoming NTN Direct service, positioning both companies at the forefront of 5G-powered non-terrestrial networks for IoT applications [1][10] - The integration of Iridium's NTN Direct service into Deutsche Telekom's existing IoT infrastructure aims to enhance global coverage and connectivity for various industries [2][3] Group 1: Service and Technology Integration - The NTN Direct service will leverage Iridium's LEO satellite network to expand Deutsche Telekom's NB-IoT coverage, ensuring reliable connectivity for sensors, machines, and vehicles [3][4] - The service is set to launch commercially in 2026, enabling IoT roaming for applications such as messaging, tracking, and device status updates across multiple sectors [5][10] Group 2: Growth Strategy and Financial Goals - Iridium aims to achieve $1 billion in annual service revenues by 2030 through significant R&D investments and technology upgrades, including the development of 3GPP 5G standards-based services [6][10] - The company is focusing on expanding its service offerings, including Satellite Time and Location (STL) and Direct-to-Device (D2D) communications, to enhance its market position [6][7] Group 3: Market Challenges - Iridium faces challenges in a competitive market, including licensing delays, rising tariffs, and funding cuts, which have led to a revised service revenue forecast of 3-5% for 2025 [8] - The company's debt-to-capital ratio has increased to nearly 79%, significantly higher than the industry average of 57%, indicating heightened financial risk [8]
Globalstar Surges 37% in Three Months: Is the Stock Still a Buy?
ZACKS· 2025-09-12 16:01
Core Insights - Globalstar, Inc. (GSAT) stock has increased by 37.3% over the past three months, but this is significantly lower than the Satellite and Communication Industry's growth of 141.8% [1][8] - The company reported second-quarter revenues of $67.1 million, an 11% year-over-year increase, driven by growth in wholesale capacity services and commercial IoT [5][8] - Globalstar is advancing innovative platforms like the RM200 two-way module and XCOM RAN, which are expected to enhance revenue streams [6][7] Price Performance - GSAT's stock closed at $30.29, down 2.7%, and is below its 52-week high of $41.10, raising questions about the sustainability of its momentum [4] - The stock is trading at a forward 12-month price/sales ratio of 12.78X, significantly higher than the industry average of 1.37X [16] Revenue Growth - The increase in second-quarter revenues was largely attributed to a 10% rise in service revenues, with wholesale capacity services being a key contributor [5][8] - Globalstar's revenue outlook for 2025 is projected to be between $260 million and $285 million, with expected adjusted EBITDA margins around 50% [15] Strategic Developments - The company is undergoing a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade, including the addition of approximately 90 antennas across 35 ground stations in 25 countries [9] - Globalstar signed a launch services agreement with SpaceX to deploy nine new satellites, scheduled for launch in late 2025 and 2026 [11] Client Expansion - GSAT is expanding its client base, particularly in the government sector, including partnerships with U.S. federal agencies and defense markets [12] - The company has completed a proof of concept with Parsons, moving into the commercial phase of collaboration [13] Competitive Landscape - Globalstar's proprietary spectrum is highlighted as a key competitive advantage in the satellite communications space [14] - The company faces competition from EchoStar, Iridium Communications, and Gilat Satellite Networks, with EchoStar recently selling spectrum licenses for approximately $17 billion [14] Valuation and Estimates - Analysts have raised earnings estimates for GSAT significantly, reflecting confidence in the company's long-term growth potential [18] - In comparison to peers, GSAT's stock has shown a notable performance, with Iridium declining by 35.8% while GILT and SATS have seen increases of 37.3% and 357.5%, respectively [19]
GSAT Expands Singapore Ground Station for Next-Gen C-3 Satcom System
ZACKS· 2025-08-13 16:26
Core Insights - Globalstar, Inc. has commenced construction to expand its Singapore ground station, adding two 6-meter tracking antennas to support its third-generation C-3 mobile satellite system [1][11] - This expansion strengthens Globalstar's presence in Southeast Asia and aligns with its global efforts to enhance satellite coverage and network capacity [2] - The Singapore project is part of a broader C-3 expansion plan that includes approximately 90 new tracking antennas worldwide, aiming to meet the growing demand for mobile satellite communications [3] Financial Performance - In the last reported quarter, Globalstar achieved revenues of $67.1 million, reflecting an 11% year-over-year increase, driven by growth in wholesale capacity services and Commercial IoT [4] - The company reaffirmed its 2025 financial outlook, projecting total revenues between $260 million and $285 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of around 50% [7] Strategic Partnerships and Agreements - Globalstar signed a launch services agreement with SpaceX for its second set of replacement satellites and received FCC Space Bureau acceptance for its C-3 petition [4] - The company entered into a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Army to test its edge-processing satellite solutions for defense applications [5] - In July, Globalstar announced agreements with Telecom Castilla-La Mancha, S.A. to expand its Alcazar Teleport facility in Spain, enhancing its capabilities in Europe [6] Stock Performance - Globalstar currently holds a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), with its shares gaining 53.4% over the past year, compared to the Zacks Satellite and Communication industry's growth of 67.5% [8]
Gilat Defense Lands Multimillion-Dollar Israeli SATCOM Contract
ZACKS· 2025-08-13 15:56
Core Insights - Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (GILT) has secured a multimillion-dollar contract from Israel's Ministry of Defense for the delivery and integration of advanced satellite communication (SATCOM) systems, with completion expected by the end of 2025 [1][10]. Group 1: Contract and Deliverables - The contract entails the rapid deployment of advanced SATCOM systems tailored to the operational needs of Israel's defense forces, designed to operate in challenging conditions [2]. - The company expressed pride in delivering a customized solution for the Israeli Ministry of Defense, highlighting its capability to meet complex operational requirements with speed and precision [3]. Group 2: Market Position and Demand - Gilat is positioned to capitalize on the rising global demand for defense SATCOM, driven by geopolitical tensions and the growth of Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbits (NGSO) [4]. - The Defense unit is experiencing growth due to increased global investment in secure communication technologies, with nations expanding their communication infrastructure for security and operational agility [5]. Group 3: Financial Performance - In Q2 2025, Gilat's revenues reached $105 million, a 37% increase year-over-year, with commercial revenues rising by 59.1% due to the Stellar Blu acquisition [9]. - The company has raised its 2025 revenue outlook to between $435 million and $455 million, up from a previous forecast of $415 million to $455 million, with adjusted EBITDA projected between $50 million and $53 million [10][11]. Group 4: Strategic Initiatives - Gilat Defense is enhancing its sales initiatives to raise awareness of its technological expertise and its role in supporting satellite connectivity for U.S. and allied defense agencies [8]. - The company secured orders exceeding $8 million from the Israeli Ministry of Defense and an initial order of over $7 million from the U.S. Army, with a potential total value of approximately $70 million [7].
Is Astera Labs, Inc. (ALAB) Outperforming Other Computer and Technology Stocks This Year?
ZACKS· 2025-08-13 14:41
Group 1 - Astera Labs, Inc. (ALAB) is outperforming its peers in the Computer and Technology sector with a year-to-date return of approximately 45% compared to the sector average of 14.6% [4] - The Zacks Rank for Astera Labs is 1 (Strong Buy), indicating strong analyst sentiment and a positive earnings outlook, with a consensus estimate for full-year earnings increasing by 72.5% in the past quarter [3] - The Internet - Software industry, to which Astera Labs belongs, has an average gain of 23.7% this year, further highlighting ALAB's strong performance relative to its industry [5] Group 2 - The Computer and Technology group consists of 605 companies and is currently ranked 5 within the Zacks Sector Rank, which includes 16 different groups [2] - Another notable performer in the sector is Gilat Satellite (GILT), which has returned 48% year-to-date and also holds a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) [4][5] - The Satellite and Communication industry, to which Gilat Satellite belongs, is ranked 28 and has seen a gain of 9.3% this year [6]
Iridium Falls 22% on Q2 Earnings Miss & Lowered View, Revenues Up Y/Y
ZACKS· 2025-07-25 14:50
Core Insights - Iridium Communications reported Q2 2025 EPS of $0.20, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 13% and down from $0.27 in the prior year due to a one-time gain of $19.8 million last year not recurring [1][9] - Quarterly revenues reached $216.9 million, an 8% increase year over year, driven by service revenues and equipment sales, beating consensus estimates by 1% [2][9] Revenue Breakdown - Total service revenues increased by 2% year over year to $155.6 million, contributing 72% to total revenues, with a subscriber base expansion driving the growth [3][4] - The commercial service segment accounted for 59% of total revenues, rising 2% to $128.8 million, supported by strong IoT performance [4] - Government service revenues grew by 1% to $26.8 million, attributed to a contractual rate increase with the U.S. Space Force [4] Equipment and Engineering Performance - Subscriber equipment sales declined by 15% to $19.5 million, aligning with company expectations, and are projected to remain flat for the full year [5] - Engineering and support revenues surged by 62% to $41.9 million, primarily due to increased U.S. government activity, indicating ongoing demand for Iridium's satellite expertise [6] Financial Metrics - Total operating expenses were $166.6 million, up from $157.4 million in the prior-year quarter, mainly due to higher service costs [7] - Operational EBITDA increased by 6% year over year to $121.3 million, reflecting strength in recurring service and engineering revenues [10] Subscriber and Liquidity Information - As of June 30, the company had 2,483,000 billable subscribers, a 3% increase from the previous year, supported by commercial IoT growth [10] - Total cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities were $79.3 million, with $1.8 billion of net debt [11] Updated Outlook - The company lowered its full-year 2025 service revenue growth guidance from 5%-7% to 3%-5% due to several factors, including subscriber losses and delays in PNT revenues [12] - OEBITDA is still forecasted to be between $490 million and $500 million, an increase from $470.6 million in 2024 [13]
Globalstar Aids U.S. Army to Power the Future of Tactical Communications
ZACKS· 2025-07-16 14:45
Core Insights - Globalstar, Inc. has entered into a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Army to evaluate its satellite data solutions for military applications, indicating a significant integration of commercial satellite technology with defense needs [1][10] Group 1: CRADA and Military Applications - The CRADA focuses on Globalstar's next-generation telecommunications infrastructure, which is designed for low probability of intercept (LPI) and low probability of detection (LPD) communications, essential for modern military operations [2][5] - Globalstar's solutions aim to overcome vulnerabilities of traditional communication methods, providing reliable data in harsh and contested environments without compromising mission security [3][4] - The collaboration is expected to enhance capabilities for covert sensing, unmanned systems, and logistics tracking in high-risk environments [2][6] Group 2: Technological Innovations - Globalstar is positioning itself as a key player in low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite infrastructure, focusing on ultra-low size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) devices that support real-time tactical activities and reduce operational risks [3][4] - The company's OTA messaging architecture supports dynamic communication protocols that enhance its LPI/LPD capabilities, making it suitable for defense missions in restricted communication settings [5][6] Group 3: Market Position and Financial Outlook - Globalstar is expanding its market presence through strategic partnerships, such as the agreement with Telecom Castilla-La Mancha to enhance its satellite services network in Europe [7] - The company has initiated the installation of a 6-meter tracking antenna for its upcoming C-3 mobile satellite system, marking the start of a global infrastructure expansion [8] - Management has reaffirmed its revenue guidance for 2025, projecting between $260 million and $285 million, with an expected adjusted EBITDA margin of around 50% [8]